Emma Oschrin received her Ph.D. in Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior from Indiana University where she studied plant community ecology. Her research focused on co-occurring invasive plants and how they impact native prairie communities. She has also worked in the conservation non-profit sector, at the Mono Lake Committee in eastern California, where she gained an appreciation for interpretive science education. As Budburst Director, she helps people engage with the nature in their communities and works to turn community scientists’ contribution to research into meaningful conservation action. Throughout her educational and work experience, she developed a passion for effective science communication and believes that connecting to the plants all around us can serve as a gateway to broader environmental activism.